6. Among the aspects of showing affection for the disbelievers is adopting

their calendars, particularly those which are related to their belief and religious convictions such as the Gregorian calendar which commemorates the birthday of Jesus (PBUH). This calendar has been innovated by them and has no relation to the religion of Jesus (PBUH). Therefore, using this calendar is a means of reviving their rites and ceremonies. To avoid this, the Prophet's Companions (may Allah be pleased with them), during the caliphate of 'Umar Ibnul-Khana.b (may Allah be pleased with him), set a calendar different from theirs which was based on the Prophet's immigration to Medina. This indicates the obligation of denying the practices of the disbelievers regarding dates and other practices. 7. Similarly, participating in the disbelievers' festivals, helping them perform their ceremonies, congratulating them on their special occasions and attending their celebrations are among the aspects of befriending the disbelievers. The Qur'anic verse, ~ [they are] those who do not testify to falsehood ..... (Qurln: AIFurqa.n: 72) was interpreted that the servants of Allah should not witness the ceremonies ofthe disbelievers. 8. Applauding the disbelievers, highly estimating their civilization, being proud of their manners and skills and overlooking the false convictions they retain, are also among the prohibited practices which a Muslim should not do. Almighty Allah says: '~nd do not extend your eyes toward that by which We have given enjoyment to [some] categories of them, [its being but] the splendor of worldly life by which We test them. And the provision ofyour Lord is better and more enduring." (Qur'a.n: l3.-Ha.: 131) This Qur'anic verse does not call the Muslims to overlook taking all possible means of strength such as learning advanced industries and applying essential factors for successful and lawful economics and powerful military means. It is a vital necessity for Muslims. Allah, Exalted be He, says: ~ prepare against them whatever )'Ou are able ofpower..... (Qur'a.n: AI-Anfru: 60) All natural sources of power should be retained by Muslims. Almighty Allah says: "Say, 'Who has forbidden the adornment of {i.e. from] Allah which He has produced for His servants and the good [lawful] things of provision" Say, 'They are for those who believe during the worldly life [but] exclUSively for them on the Day of Resurrection:" (Quran: AI-A'rar: 32) And says: '~nd He hIlS subjected to you whatever is in the heavens and whatever is on earth - allfrom Him... J) (Quran: Al-Jathyiah: l3) He further says: "It is He Who createdfor you all ofthat which is on the earth•.!' (Quran: Al-Baqarah: 29) Muslims, therefore, must compete in extracting the benefits of nature and utilizing its sources so that they may do without reliance on the disbelievers. They must set up their own factories and promote their own technologies.